UFO Nyt - No 6 november-december 1967

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NYT
Issue: 6
Volume: 10
Date: November-December 1967
Publisher: S. U. F. O. I. - SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO NYT, published by the Scandinavian UFO Information organization, focuses on the state of UFO research in 1967, exploring scientific attitudes, organizational efforts, and notable sightings.

Editorial and Organizational Information

The editorial team includes Frank Pedersen (Editor-in-chief), Iver O. Kjems (Editor), Frank Lerbæk (Editorial Secretary), Hanne Nielsen (Expedition), and Irma Andersen (Accountant). The magazine provides contact information for various departments and representatives across Denmark and Norway, including a contact for international affairs and a library.

SUFOI's mission is to contribute to the knowledge and understanding of UFO research, while clarifying that the organization does not necessarily endorse all opinions expressed in its articles.

Key Articles and Themes

"Vil 1967 blive et vendepunkt?" (Will 1967 Become a Turning Point?)

This lead article by Frank Pedersen reflects on the past year, noting that despite ten years of UFO research since UFO-NYT's inception in 1957, official institutions have not significantly aided in clarifying the phenomenon. However, 1967 is highlighted as a potentially significant year. While some religious sects have attempted to use the UFO topic for recruitment, the article dismisses this as a minor issue due to the growing serious interest in UFOs. It mentions numerous overflights and the expansion of research by the University of Colorado, though details remain unknown. A key development is the positive stance taken by prominent scientists, notably Professor James E. MacDonald, whose book is considered a major contribution. The article also mentions Dr. Allen Hynek, the US Air Force's UFO consultant, who has publicly acknowledged that many sightings are difficult to explain away, though he is cautious about concluding they are extraterrestrial visits. SUFOI has sent MacDonald's book to the Danish government, parliament, scientists, and the press, hoping to foster a more positive attitude towards UFO investigation.

"Til Regering og Folketing" (To the Government and Parliament)

This section contains a formal letter from SUFOI to the Danish government and parliament, forwarding Professor James E. McDonald's report on UFOs. The letter emphasizes that UFOs represent a significant scientific problem and criticizes the way American authorities have handled observations and treated witnesses. It notes that while the phenomenon is global, the official US stance has negatively influenced Nordic authorities. SUFOI urges the government to stay informed and be open to private efforts to solve the mystery, offering their resources for any official investigation.

"Løst og fast..." (Miscellaneous...)

This section provides updates and announcements. It thanks readers for their support in 1967 and looks forward to 1968, encouraging readers to help spread awareness of UFO-NYT. Subscription details for 1968 are provided, with the price set at 32 kr. for an annual subscription of 8 issues. The magazine also addresses complaints about its mailing method, explaining that direct mailing without envelopes is necessary due to the large subscriber base. Readers are instructed to report damaged copies or address changes to the local post office.

Additionally, this section includes a notice from the SUFOI library requesting the return of overdue books, with a reminder that borrowing costs 2 kr. in stamps. A quote from British dramatist John Osborne is included: "It is harmful that the viewpoints are approaching each other too closely: it leads to clashes."

"Er Skandinavien UFO-ulandsområde?" (Is Scandinavia an UFO-Underdeveloped Area?)

This article examines the level of UFO activity in Scandinavia compared to other parts of the world, particularly the USA. It notes the influx of well-documented reports from abroad, especially the US, often involving multiple witnesses and close encounters. The author observes that activity in Scandinavia appears lower, with fewer high-quality close-range sightings. While SUFOI collects around 150 reports annually, mostly from Denmark, Norway and Sweden contribute fewer. The article questions whether Scandinavia is indeed a 'UFO-underdeveloped area,' attributing the lower numbers partly to less organized reporting in the past and differences in population density and media coverage compared to the US. The author suggests that overall UFO activity might be constant globally but notes a potential recent wave of sightings in the US, characterized by more direct encounters and provocations, which has not been observed in Scandinavia. The article concludes that it is difficult to label Scandinavia as underdeveloped due to these comparative challenges.

"Brev fra J. Allen Hynek" (Letter from J. Allen Hynek)

This section features a letter from Dr. J. Allen Hynek, originally published in 'Flying Saucers' magazine. Hynek, a long-time UFO consultant for the US Air Force, discusses his evolving perspective on the UFO phenomenon. He notes the continued increase in UFO reports over two decades, despite a lack of serious scientific attention. He acknowledges that many reports are easily explained as misidentifications but argues that a significant number of 'hard data' reports, from credible witnesses and involving unusual characteristics, warrant serious scientific investigation. Hynek debunks common myths about UFO reporters, stating that they are not exclusively 'true believers' but often ordinary people who have had unexplained experiences. He also addresses the reluctance of scientists to engage with the topic, the lack of radar or photographic evidence, and the importance of studying the phenomenon without pre-conceived notions. He emphasizes that the goal of research is to find answers, not to confirm existing beliefs.

"Kenneth Arnold's egen beretning" (Kenneth Arnold's Own Account)

This section presents Kenneth Arnold's personal account of his famous sighting on June 24, 1947, which is credited with popularizing the term 'flying saucers' and initiating widespread UFO research. The account is taken from the book "The Coming of the Saucers" by Ray Palmer and Kenneth Arnold. Arnold describes his experience of observing nine crescent-shaped objects flying at high speed near Mount Rainier, Washington.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the growing scientific interest in UFOs, the challenges of serious investigation, the role of organizations like SUFOI, and the need to distinguish between credible reports and misidentifications. The editorial stance is one of advocating for a more rigorous, scientific approach to the UFO phenomenon, encouraging open-mindedness among scientists and authorities, and promoting the dissemination of reliable information to the public. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of 'hard data' and systematic study, while cautioning against sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated April 1967, focuses on the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, presenting detailed witness accounts and analytical discussions. The cover headline emphasizes that scientific methods provide irrefutable evidence that UFO observations should not be ridiculed. The magazine features articles by Jacques and Janine Vallee, René Fouéré, and others, alongside reports on specific incidents.

Article: Pilot's Observation Near Mount Rainier

The issue begins with a detailed account from a pilot on June 24, 1947, who was searching for a downed C-46 aircraft near Mount Rainier, Washington. While flying at approximately 9,200 feet, the pilot observed a formation of nine bright, luminous objects. Initially mistaking a flash for a passing aircraft, he soon realized he was witnessing something extraordinary. The objects flew in an echelon formation, with no visible tails, and displayed remarkable speed and maneuverability. The pilot estimated their speed to be over 1000 miles per hour, significantly exceeding contemporary aircraft capabilities. He noted their unusual flight characteristics, comparing them to speed boats or a kite tail, and their ability to fly in a diagonal, chain-like line.

Article: The Loch Raven Dam Incident

Another significant case detailed is the Loch Raven Dam incident from October 26, 1958. Two witnesses, Mr. C. and Mr. S., reported encountering an egg-shaped object hovering over a bridge. Their car's electrical system failed completely, and they experienced a sensation of heat and a loud noise. The object then ascended vertically with great speed, emitting a bright light. The incident was investigated by the Air Force and remains officially unidentified. The witnesses reported mild burns on their faces, which were examined by doctors.

Article: French Observation and Comparison

A French observation, occurring just two days after the Loch Raven Dam incident, is presented as a parallel case. Jean Boyer reported seeing a luminous 'disc' over Pont-la-Dame. The object, described as two plates stuck together, was estimated to be 200-400 meters above the ground. It then ascended vertically with great speed, leaving a burning trail and a faint glow, causing Boyer's car to tilt. Boyer's observation was considered significant because the object's position was clearly established, and it was fully round with a smaller circle inside, emitting sparks. Unlike the Loch Raven incident, this observation involved no noise and no disruption to the car's ignition.

Scientific Analysis by Jacques and Janine Vallee

Jacques and Janine Vallee contribute an article discussing the scientific methods required for studying UFO phenomena. They argue that investigations limited to national borders are insufficient and that a global perspective is necessary. They emphasize the need to analyze observations rigorously, focusing on the physical characteristics of the objects without jumping to conclusions about their origin. The authors categorize UFOs into types (TYPE-I for ground-level objects, TYPE-II for unusual shapes like cigars or spheres, and TYPE-IV for objects in flight) and analyze reported dimensions. They note that most reported objects are small (2-5 meters), but TYPE-IV objects can be much larger (10-30 meters). The article also discusses the kinematic characteristics of UFOs, such as their ability to hover, accelerate rapidly, and change color, which are inconsistent with known aircraft technology.

Secondary Effects of UFOs

The magazine explores secondary effects reported in UFO sightings, including auditory phenomena (noise), electromagnetic interference (car engines stopping, compass deviations), and physical effects on witnesses (heat, burns, disorientation). While some conventional explanations are offered, the article suggests that documented cases demonstrate effects that cannot be easily dismissed.

Eugene Coquil's Encounter

René Fouéré recounts a meeting with Eugene Coquil, a carpenter who reported a strange encounter on January 16, 1966. Coquil saw unusual lights in a field near Bolazec, France, and upon investigation, encountered a square-shaped object with four luminous posts. The object hovered near his car for a minute without making any sound. The area was sparsely populated, highlighting the tendency for UFO sightings to occur in remote locations, as noted by Jacques Vallée.

Official Russian UFO Research

A brief mention is made of official UFO research in Russia, citing Professor James E. McDonald's contacts with Russian scientists. An investigation is reportedly underway, headquartered at the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory in Armenia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for a serious, scientific approach to UFO research, moving beyond ridicule and speculation. The recurring themes include detailed witness testimonies, the analysis of object characteristics (shape, size, speed, behavior), the investigation of electromagnetic and physical effects, and the limitations of conventional explanations. The editorial stance is that UFO phenomena warrant rigorous study and cannot be easily dismissed as mere illusions or misidentifications. The magazine emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and meticulous data collection in understanding this complex subject.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated June 1967, focuses on reports of unusual UFO shapes, particularly square and rectangular craft, and critically examines the statistical data released by the US Air Force regarding UFO investigations. The magazine also explores the phenomenon of levitation and its potential connection to UFO technology.

Square and Rectangular Flying Saucers

The issue begins by discussing the observation of a square flying saucer in Bolazec, France, which emitted lights not directed in any specific way. This leads to a broader discussion, prompted by reader René Hardy, about numerous other sightings of square and rectangular UFOs reported in various UFO publications. These include an incident in Zuaga, Spain, where 12 workers saw a square machine land and take off; a sighting over New York City near the UN building of a rectangular, pillow-shaped object; and an event in Chippewa Township, Pennsylvania, where a large, square, brown object was observed falling into a forest.

Further reports detail a rectangular object with red and amber lights seen in Malta, Montana; a disc-shaped object in Philadelphia that was followed by a square object; and a line of red lights in Methuen, Massachusetts, which revealed a trapezoidal shape, causing electrical disturbances in a nearby vehicle. The article highlights that the aerodynamic inefficiency of square shapes raises questions about the propulsion systems of these craft, suggesting they might not be bound by conventional aerodynamic principles.

Levitation and Unknown Propulsion

The magazine draws a parallel between the silent, stable hovering of UFOs observed in Bolazec, Fort-Lamy, and West Palm Beach, and the phenomenon of levitation described in mystical and religious texts. It notes the lack of air disturbance around these hovering objects, unlike what would be expected from conventional aircraft or propulsion systems. This leads to speculation about unknown energy sources or anti-gravity fields being utilized by these craft. The article suggests that the stability of these objects, seemingly 'stuck' in space, is as astonishing as their method of hovering, and that their propulsion might be based on 'field' technology rather than aerodynamics.

US Air Force UFO Statistics Under Scrutiny

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a critical analysis of the UFO statistics provided by the US Air Force, authored by John Weigle. The article questions the reliability and consistency of these statistics, particularly those released by Project Blue Book. It points out discrepancies in the numbers of reported and identified UFOs over the years, citing Arthur Sylvester's controversial statement about the government's right to lie. The author highlights how the Air Force's classification criteria for 'insufficient data' and 'unidentified' have shifted, making direct comparisons difficult.

Specific examples are given, such as the reclassification of cases and the changing totals for 'unknown' phenomena. The magazine references Project Blue Book Special Report No. 14, questioning the competence of the organization that compiled it. It also notes that while the Air Force claims transparency, certain documents like Regulation 200-2 and JANAP 146, which deal with UFO reports, are not made available to the public.

The article also mentions that the Air Force states that all UFO photos submitted have been determined to be misidentifications of natural phenomena or conventional objects. It further states that older reports from Project Sign, Project Grudge, and Blue Book Special Report No. 14 are archived but not readily accessible. The issue also touches upon the ongoing study of UFOs by Colorado University scientists, with results expected in 1968.

UFO Pictures

The issue includes a section titled "UFO-billeder" (UFO Pictures) featuring several photographic examples of alleged UFOs. These include a photograph claimed to be a genuine flying saucer taken in Mexico in 1966, a "mysterious object" over the UN building in New York in 1963, a photograph from Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, dated August 6, 1965, and a photo of alleged "ghost rockets" from Scandinavia, published in 1946.

Report Central News

The "Rapporthjørnet" (Report Corner) section provides an update on recent UFO reports received by the organization. It mentions reports from Norway and Sweden, including a significant phenomenon observed on September 12th around 2200-2215, which was later identified as barium rockets launched from Andøya in Northern Norway. These rockets were used to map electrical fields in the ionosphere and magnetosphere. Another report describes a bright, blue object moving rapidly across the sky on September 27th, which is tentatively identified as a meteor.

This section also includes specific sightings, such as a red and yellow cigar-shaped object observed over Båstad, Østfold, Norway, by farmer Hans T. Baastad, who estimated its size at five meters in diameter and its speed at 15-20 km/h. Another similar observation near Nordheim, Norway, described a cigar-shaped object with a gray mass at the front, a red object with a flat bottom, and a long, reddish tail.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT consistently questions official explanations and statistics related to UFO phenomena, particularly those provided by military and governmental bodies. The magazine adopts a critical stance, highlighting inconsistencies, alleged secrecy, and the potential for misinterpretation or deliberate obfuscation. There is a strong emphasis on witness accounts and the analysis of photographic evidence, while also exploring more speculative theories regarding unknown propulsion systems and energy sources. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations beyond conventional science and official narratives, while maintaining a degree of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1968 (Pages 243-252)
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Cover Headline: Vi fotograferede UFO'er (We photographed UFOs)

This issue of UFO-NYT from 1968 presents a collection of UFO sightings, investigations, and related scientific discussions. The magazine features witness accounts, photographic evidence, and analyses of phenomena observed in various parts of the world, alongside articles on space exploration and astronomy.

UFO Sightings and Encounters

Norway

A report from Skjelvik details an oval, orange-red object that followed a car at low altitude and speed, causing significant radio interference. Another account from Aure describes a family observing a dark grey, cigar-shaped object with stubby wings that landed on a lake, slid across the surface, and then submerged. A separate incident near Porsgrunn describes a circular, burnt patch on the ground attributed to a hovering light or UFO, with evidence of pressure on surrounding vegetation.

Denmark

An observation from Kolding describes a cigar-shaped object that initially flew horizontally and then vertically before shrinking and disappearing. A report from Frederikssundsvej between Husum and Herlev details an unusual "soap bubble"-like object that rolled, hovered, and then ascended rapidly, described as completely colorless.

USA

From Woonsocket, Rhode Island, a series of reports describe illuminated oval objects. Two individuals, Harold A. Trudel and Joseph L. Ferriere, investigated and managed to photograph two disc-shaped objects near power lines. The article notes the objects were disc-shaped, moved erratically, and made no sound. Another report from Alida, Saskatchewan, Canada, details multiple sightings of lights and objects, including spherical and cone-shaped forms with unusual lights and sounds, observed by students and locals.

Australia

A farmer named Philip Johnston from Western Australia recounts an extraordinary encounter on August 14, 1966. While operating a bulldozer at night, he observed a powerful light that stopped, emitted red lights, and later reappeared, hovering for several minutes. The object was described as large, with a metallic sheen, and appeared to have doors and windows.

Vietnam

A brief report from Da Nang mentions the U.S. Air Force investigating a cylindrical, silver-colored object observed by multiple personnel near a military base.

Scientific and Astronomical Articles

Måne-analyse (Moon Analysis)

This section discusses the findings from NASA's Surveyor 5 mission, which analyzed the Moon's surface composition. Planetologist Donald Gauld from NASA stated that the Moon's surface has a striking similarity to Earth's, with basaltic rocks composed mainly of oxygen and silicon, along with aluminum, iron-nickel, and carbon. The analysis suggests that the Moon's maria (seas) may have formed from lava flows originating from the Moon's interior. The article also touches upon the theory that the Moon and Earth may have once been part of the same cosmic cloud of matter.

Eksploderende stjerne (Exploding Star)

This article reports on the observation of "Alcock Nova," an exploding star in the constellation Delphinus. Initially a faint star, it flared up to magnitude 5.5 and maintained this brightness for an extended period. It is noted as the second brightest nova in the last decade, with a comparison to the famous "Tycho's Star" observed in 1572.

Liv på Mars (Life on Mars)

Curtis Fuller's article explores the possibility of life on Mars and Venus. Regarding Mars, it discusses evidence such as eroded crater rims and the presence of methane and carbon dioxide in its thin atmosphere, suggesting the potential for microbial life or decaying vegetation. The article also references Dr. Gerard de Vaucouleurs' work in enhancing Mariner IV photographs to reveal features like the Pyriphlegethon canal. For Venus, the article questions the high surface temperature estimates, suggesting that electronic discharges might be a factor rather than extreme heat. It also considers the possibility that the dense cloud cover might not create the 'greenhouse effect' as strongly as theorized.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

UFO-NYT consistently features detailed witness accounts of unidentified aerial phenomena, often accompanied by photographic evidence or corroborating testimonies. The magazine appears to maintain an open stance towards the UFO phenomenon, presenting various sightings and encouraging further investigation. There is a clear interest in documenting these events and exploring potential explanations, ranging from misidentifications to more extraordinary possibilities. The inclusion of scientific articles on space exploration and astronomy suggests an attempt to contextualize UFO phenomena within broader scientific understanding, while also highlighting areas where current scientific knowledge may be insufficient. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of credible evidence and investigation, as seen in the detailed reporting of the Woonsocket photographic case and the discussion of the limitations of photographic forgery.

This issue of UFO NYT, dated October 1967, presents a diverse range of topics related to UFO phenomena, space exploration, and scientific inquiry. The cover story, "Månen ingen død planet" (The Moon, No Dead Planet), discusses new theories about the Moon's origin and composition, while other articles delve into a mysterious animal mutilation case, botanical research for extraterrestrial agriculture, and a report from an international UFO congress.

The Moon: Not a Dead Planet?

The lead article, based on reports from Washington and The New York Times News Service, discusses the findings from the Surveyor 5 spacecraft. Scientists have conducted the first chemical analyses of lunar material, leading to the tentative conclusion that the Moon and Earth are made of the same material. This contradicts the previous notion of the Moon being a dead planet. The article highlights the theory that the Moon may have been a colossal piece of Earth that was torn away millions of years ago. The materials analyzed from the Surveyor 5 landing site bear a striking resemblance to terrestrial samples found in areas like the Snake River plain, Columbia River plateau, Hawaii, and Iceland. The article also suggests that the Moon has been volcanically active and warm, contrary to earlier beliefs.

The Snippy Case: A Flying Saucer Mystery

Another significant report details the baffling case of a horse named Snippy from Alamosa, Colorado. The horse was found to have its internal organs, skull, and spine completely empty, with no signs of surgical intervention. A pathologist from Denver was unable to provide a rational explanation for the disappearance of the horse's insides. The official explanation of lightning strike was dismissed. The mystery deepened when the horse's carcass was found near a ranch, with signs of crushed vegetation in a 23-meter diameter area and traces of exhaust gas found 100 meters away. At the site where a flying object was believed to have landed, six holes, two inches in diameter and four inches deep, were discovered, and Geiger counters indicated high radioactivity. A commission has seized parts of the horse and a "tool" found by the owner, Mrs. Lewis, which was covered in horsehair and caused burns when handled.

Further investigation into the Snippy case is reported on page 3, involving an atom physicist, Frederick Ayer, and reinforced by Dr. Robert O. Adams, a professor of veterinary science, and psychologist James Wadsworth. They are investigating the San Luis Valley, known for frequent UFO sightings. The article mentions claims of UFO explosions in the air and possible contact between UFOs and Earth's population. It recounts an incident where a woman in Pagosa Springs was visited by a man seeking a painting of a UFO. Another individual, calling himself "Sir Salvador" or "Mr. Dixon," offered to arrange a meeting with UFO crews. The horse Snippy was found in a location with high radioactivity and traces of exhaust gas, with its meat, brain, spinal cord, and internal organs missing without any incision.

"Things from Another World" - The Røros Object

This section reports on a search for a mysterious object in Djup-sjøen near Røros, Norway, by divers from the underwater club "Nautilus" in Trondheim. The object was described as emitting a sound like several jet planes. The search was prompted by a story from farmer Bernhard Sollie, who in August 1947 witnessed an object descend into the lake near his farm, Haslevvollen. He described it as making a sharp turn and entering the water, remaining afloat for a while before disappearing. His wife heard a sound described as "deeper than several jet planes" directly overhead. The UFO association in Trondheim believes this was a UFO from outer space. Divers have been searching the muddy bottom of the lake, which is about 15 meters deep, but the conditions are difficult.

"Agriculture" in Outer Space

This article, an excerpt from The Wall Street Journal, focuses on the work of botanist Sanford Siegel. His research, supported by NASA, aims to understand how Earth plants can adapt to the hostile atmospheres of other planets, particularly Mars. Siegel's experiments involve simulating Martian conditions, including low oxygen levels (less than 1/10th of Earth's atmosphere) and different gas compositions. He has successfully grown plants like a Peruvian apple cactus, cedar trees, and a Haworthia bush in these simulated environments. The Haworthia even produced new shoots and flowered in Martian conditions. Siegel's work also explores growing plants in reduced oxygen environments, suggesting potential benefits for crop yields, and even in saltwater, with the possibility of cultivating crops in vast saltwater dams. His research is crucial for future space missions, including planned landings on Mars in 1973 and 1975.

International UFO Congress in Germany

This report details the experience of several Danish UFOlogists attending an international UFO congress in Mainz, Germany. The journey to Mainz was pleasant, with scenic views of the German autobahns and autumn landscapes. The congress, which lasted several days, attracted approximately 300-1000 attendees. The program covered 20 years of UFO research from various perspectives, including scientific presentations by Professor H. Oberth and more show-oriented presentations by Rev. E. Stranges. The attendees made new contacts and exchanged materials. The report expresses gratitude for the warm reception and respect shown by the German press towards the UFO phenomenon.

Contact Addresses and SUFOI Information

The issue concludes with contact addresses for UFO organizations across Denmark as of June 1967, and information about the SUFOI (Scandinavian UFO Information) lecture department, including an address and contact person for arranging lectures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena and extraterrestrial life, the potential for human exploration of space, and the reporting of unusual and unexplained events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting scientific findings, witness accounts, and research efforts without definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to consider the possibilities. There is a clear emphasis on documenting and disseminating information related to UFOs and related scientific endeavors.